Flatbed verses Pickup Box

Many may already be aware of this story, but thought I'd provide the link here.

Truck Camper Magazine's interview with Douglass Truck Bodies (Custom Camper Flat Beds)


http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/leaders/rick-douglass-of-douglass-truck-bodies

First, I'm making the assumption that you are looking at new. Older models changes the choices somewhat.

Most 350/3500s have technically more payload capacity than the F450 pickup bed model. If you go over a 3500 lb dry camper, you will likely push the F450 pickup bed payload. The truck is heavier than the 350, but with higher axle capacity, better brakes, and better turn radius. A good fit for my 9 1/2 heavy camper and just under GVWR for me with full fluids and loaded how we camp.

If you go heavier and want the best brakes, I think you have to go 550/5500 or possibly 450 with flatbed. The suspension is different on the flatbed models compared to the pickup bed, and they have more payload capacity. The 350/3500s have great payload in the newer models.

The downsides are the most common gearing/mpg is probably different from 350-550 although you'll have to compare to models to find out. Custom beds are very expensive as in around $8000. They are very nice but for my use, they didn't make sense.

If you want the most storage capacity, you also need to go flatbed which would be a big plus for full timing.

I looked at flatbeds for my F250, but the added storage capacity could not be utilized due to payload capacity.

When I went looking for bigger truck to haul a triple slide TC in the future, I found the 450/4500 class trucks were marginal at carrying the weight and mos likely over if towing a heavy trailer like mine.

This led me to the 550/5500 trucks. Utility beds were extremely heavy and expensive for my application. Since I was going to keep my existing TC and upgrade later, fitment was an issue. The most versatile option was getting a flatbed fitted with a SuperHitch and lower boxes. Once I get the larger TC, I will have appropriate boxes fitted to the upper deck or have enclosures on my TC along the sides.

Thanks 54Suds...

How did you decide on the length of the bed? Then did you purchase the truck with that flatbed, and then dress it out the way you wanted?

Where is the best place to place the center of gravity, 60" back from cab? I wonder if the weight is too far forward, and one loads the front axel more, does one start chewing through front end components: ball joints, etc (?)

Thanks,
Bill

Bill001 wrote:
Where are you going to have that flatbed fitted out?

truck craft dealer finder link
I probably will use a NH dealer no sales tax :)

Yah, I like the storage along the sides.

I'm planning on the Tuff Plastic bins as I'll need to remove them myself (loaded - the bins, no me) to make room for buggies as needed... but I'm not sure how to config them and what size.

I can't really tell until it is all put together, but looking for that extra storage areas. and a little in front as I'll have a 10' bed.. might be a little room there..

fun, nice set up and thanks for the link, interesting stuff there at the Buyers Link..
nice..

Looks great.

Wayne

Where are you going to have that flatbed fitted out?